Real Madrid have officially named Xabi Alonso as their new head coach. At 43, the Spanish manager returns to the club where he achieved legendary status as a player, having won six major trophies during his time in Madrid. He arrives from Bayer Leverkusen, where he delivered an era-defining spell of success.
A Historic Era at Bayer Leverkusen
Appointed in October 2022, Alonso quickly transformed Leverkusen into one of Europe’s most formidable sides. In his first season, the team reached the Europa League semi-finals and secured European qualification. The 2023/24 campaign was even more remarkable, as Alonso led Leverkusen to their first-ever Bundesliga title, ending Bayern Munich’s 11-year streak. He also lifted the German Cup and finished as Europa League runners-up—just short of a historic treble.
His time in Germany was defined by an incredible 51-match unbeaten run, capped off with the club’s first German Super Cup win in August 2024.
Coaching Roots at Real Madrid
Alonso began his coaching career at Real Madrid in 2018, taking charge of the Under-12s and guiding them to a league title and Torneo de Campeones victory. He later managed Real Sociedad B from 2019 to 2022, earning promotion to the Segunda División in 2021.
A Glittering Playing Career
From 2009 to 2014, Alonso made 236 appearances for Real Madrid, winning La Décima (the club’s 10th European Cup), one LaLiga title, two Copas del Rey, one Spanish Super Cup, and one UEFA Super Cup.
Beyond Madrid, his playing honours include:
Spain: 1 World Cup, 2 European Championships
Liverpool: 1 Champions League, 1 UEFA Super Cup, 1 FA Cup, 1 Community Shield
Bayern Munich: 3 Bundesliga titles, 1 German Cup, 1 German Super Cup
Coaching Career
Real Madrid Academy (2018–2019)
Real Sociedad B (2019–2022)
Bayer Leverkusen (2022–2025)
Real Madrid (2025– )
Managerial Honours
1 Bundesliga title
1 German Cup
1 German Super Cup
